The School Board today issued a statement on a recent Facebook post shared by board Chairwoman Christie New Craig that has stirred controversy.
The board met in closed session Monday to address the post, a division news release said.
Today, the division announced the board approved a statement:
“The School Board of the City of Chesapeake and the Chesapeake Public Schools comprise an equal employment and educational opportunity school system,” the statement reads. “Together, the Board and its administrative staff strive to treat all employees and our students, parents and community members with the highest degree of respect. In doing so, the school system adheres to the principles of equal opportunity in employment and student achievement for every person working in and attending our schools.”
“We therefore prohibit any form of discrimination on the basis of race, sex, national origin, color, religion, age, genetic information or disability,” the statement continues. “A recent social media post has resulted in some concern voiced by an advocacy group indicating its representation of a segment of the community. This post has had no effect on our commitment to maintaining equal opportunity and non-discrimination standards. The School Board welcomes and will consider communications from any person or organization with an interest in maintaining and/or improving the highest possible system of K-12 public education.”
The post Craig shared is a cartoon that reads, “Muslims hate pork, beer, dogs, bikinis, Jesus, and freedom of speech. My question is, what the hell do they come to America for?!”